In the United States, electricity derived from coal has decreased over the past two decades, with the annual output declining by almost 63 percent between 2010 and 2023. In contrast, there has been a rise in natural gas and renewable sources within the energy mix. How is electricity generated in the U.S.? Most electricity in the U.S. is generated from steam turbines, which can be powered by fossil and nuclear fuels, biomass, geothermal, and solar thermal energy. Other systems such as gas turbines, hydro turbines, wind turbines, and solar photovoltaics are also major generation technologies. Electric utilities in the U.S. generated more than 2,176 terawatt hours in 2023, accounting for just over half of the power output in the country that year. Growing renewable capacity Renewable sources have become more prominent in the U.S. in recent years, particularly wind, hydro, and solar energy. The former has overtaken conventional hydropower, becoming the leading renewable energy source in the U.S. since 2019. Wind and solar power have also accounted for the largest share of electricity capacity additions in the country.

Throughout the past decade, the United States has been notably decreasing its use of coal, and increasing the use of natural gas and renewable energy sources for electricity generation. In 2023, natural gas was by far the largest source of electricity in the North American country, with a generation share of 43 percent. Renewable energy's share amounted to 23 percent that year.

Petroleum is the primary source of energy in the United States, with a consumption of 35.43 quadrillion British thermal units in 2023. Closely following, the U.S. had 33.61 quadrillion British thermal units of energy derived from natural gas. Energy consumption by sector in the United States Petroleum is predominantly utilized as a fuel in the transportation sector, which is also the second-largest consumer of energy in the U.S. with almost 30 percent of the country’s total energy consumption in 2023. This figure is topped only by the energy-guzzling industrial sector, a major consumer of fossil fuels such as petroleum and natural gas. Renewable energy in the United States Despite the prevalence of fossil fuels in the U.S. energy mix, the use of renewable energy consumption has grown immensely in the last decades to approximately 11 exajoules in 2023. Most of the renewable energy produced in the U.S. is derived from biomass, hydro and wind sources. In 2023, renewable electricity accounted for approximately 22.5 percent of the nation’s total electricity generation.

Power Plants in the U.S.This feature layer, utilizing data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), depicts all operable electric generating plants by energy source in the U.S. This includes plants that are operating, on standby, or short- or long-term out of service. The data covers all plants with a combined nameplate capacity of 1 MW (Megawatt) or more.Per EIA, "The United States uses many different energy sources and technologies to generate electricity. The sources and technologies have changed over time, and some are used more than others. The three major categories of energy for electricity generation are fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, and petroleum), nuclear energy, and renewable energy sources. Most electricity is generated with steam turbines using fossil fuels, nuclear, biomass, geothermal, and solar thermal energy. Other major electricity generation technologies include gas turbines, hydro turbines, wind turbines, and solar photovoltaics."Madison Gas & Electric Company, Sycamore Power PlantData currency: This cached Esri service is checked monthly for updates from its federal source (Power Plants)Data modification: NoneFor more information, please visit:Electricity ExplainedEIA-860, Annual Electric Generator ReportEIA-860M, Monthly Update to the Annual Electric Generator ReportEIA-923, Power Plant Operations ReportSupport documentation: MetadataFor feedback: ArcGIScomNationalMaps@esri.comEnergy Information AdministrationPer EIA, "The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) collects, analyzes, and disseminates independent and impartial energy information to promote sound policymaking, efficient markets, and public understanding of energy and its interaction with the economy and the environment."

US Power Market size was valued to be USD 363.6 Billion in the year 2024 and it is expected to reach USD 517 Billion in 2031, at a CAGR of 4.5% over the forecast period of 2024 to 2031.

State-level data on all energy sources. Data on production, consumption, reserves, stocks, prices, imports, and exports. Data are collated from state-specific data reported elsewhere on the EIA website and are the most recent values available. Data on U.S. territories also available.

Petroleum is the most used fuel source in the United States, with a consumption level of 35.43 quadrillion British thermal units in 2023. Natural gas is the second-most common fuel source, with consumption levels rising closer to that of petroleum over recent years. Petroleum use post-financial crisis Petroleum in the United States is primarily used for fueling the transportation sector, generating heat and electricity, as well as in the production of plastics. U.S. consumption of petroleum was at its highest before the 2008 global financial crisis, when the price of crude oil rose dramatically. Petroleum consumption began to increase again in 2013, before dropping significantly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise of natural gas While petroleum consumption has been lower in the last decade than in the early 2000s, the use of natural gas has risen significantly. Natural gas consumption in the United States has seen record highs in recent years, in part due to lower costs and its growing popularity. The U.S. currently produces more natural gas than any country in the world, followed by Russia.

Data on annual emissions of Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx). Data organized by type of electric power producer, by energy source, and by U.S. state. Annual time series extend back to 1990. Based on Form EIA-861 data. Electric Power Producer: Commercial Cogen, Commercial Non-Cogen, Electric Utility, Industrial Cogen, Industrial Non-Cogen, IPP NAICS-22 Cogen, IPP NAICS-22 Non-Cogen, and Total Electric Power Industry Energy Source: Coal, Geothermal, Natural Gas, Other, Other Biomass, Other Gases, Wood and Wood Derived Fuels, Petroleum, and All Energy Sources

This deposit combines data from https://doi.org/10.3886/E146782V1 and https://doi.org/10.3886/E146801V1 to produce files containing the hourly generation, costs, and capacities of virtually all power plants in the lower 48 United States between 1999-2012 for their use in "Data and Code for: Imperfect Markets versus Imperfect Regulation in U.S. Electricity Generation" (https://doi.org/10.3886/E115467V1).

Nuclear power had the highest capacity factor among energy sources in the United States, at over 93 percent in 2023. Geothermal energy-generating facilities followed and had the largest capacity factor among renewable sources at 70 percent. In contrast, natural gas and petroleum ranked the lowest. Cost of nuclear power in the United States Despite the large capacity factor, nuclear power plants had one of the highest levelized costs of electricity in the country. The operating expenses of nuclear utilities in the U.S. are nearly 50 percent lower than those of fossil fuel power plants, indicating higher capital expenditure for these facilities. Capacity factor of renewable energy plants Excluding geothermal energy, the capacity factor of renewable energy plants in the U.S. was roughly 34 percent for hydropower and wind energy and close to 23 percent for solar photovoltaic and solar thermal in 2023. Overall, the capacity factor of offshore wind power worldwide was at 41 percent in 2023, while the one of utility-scale solar PV was at approximately 16 percent in that year.

Nuclear energy remains the most capital-intensive energy source in the United States, with estimated costs ranging from 8,765 to 14,400 U.S. dollars per kilowatt in 2024. This high investment requirement reflects the complex infrastructure and safety measures needed for nuclear power plants. Despite the high costs, nuclear energy plays a significant role in the U.S. energy sector, accounting for around 20 percent of the country’s electricity generation in 2023. Cost comparison of U.S. energy sources While nuclear energy tops the list in capital costs, other energy sources present varying levels of investment. Offshore wind power, for instance, requires substantial upfront capital, with estimates ranging from 3,750 to 5,750 U.S. dollars per kilowatt. In contrast, utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems offer more affordable options, with capital costs between 850 and 1,400 U.S. dollars per kilowatt. These differences in capital costs contribute to the overall levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), which factors in lifetime expenses and energy production. Onshore wind energy and utility-scale solar PV boasted the lowest unsubsidized LCOE in the U.S. in 2024. Renewable energy trends in the United States The U.S. energy landscape is evolving, and renewable energy supply has grown significantly owing to federal policies that have made it more affordable. The Biden administration has bolstered clean energy projects, resulting in solar PV accounting for 66 percent of the total electricity capacity additions in 2024. The funds of the Inflation Reduction Act (2022) have also heavily boosted the domestic onshore and offshore wind sector. However, the renewable energy sector is projected to face challenges under President Trump, who has called for revoking IRA investments and slowing the growth in the country’s wind generation capacity.

Key information about United States Electricity Production

• Electricity Production in United States reached 361,284 GWh in Dec 2024, compared with 324,033 GWh in the previous month.
• Electricity Production data of US is updated monthly averaging at 294,691 GWh from Jan 1973 to Dec 2024.
• The data reached an all-time high of 430,288 GWh in Jul 2024 and a record low of 139,589 GWh in Apr 1973.

The US Energy Market is segmented by Generation (Conventional Thermal, Hydro, Nuclear, Non-hydro Renewable) and Transmission & Distribution.

Coal power plants generated 2,013 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in the United States in 2005. In that year, it was projected by the EIA (Energy Information Administration) that coal power generation would increase to 2,494 TWh by 2020. Due to environmental policies, the natural gas boom, and the rapid growth of renewable energy sources, coal power generation in the U.S. actually dropped to 774 TWh in 2020. The projected growth in coal electric power meant that U.S. power sector emissions were expected to rise to three billion metric tons of CO2 by 2020. However, electricity-related emissions that year fell 40 percent from 2005 levels to 1.4 billion metric tons. This was 52 percent lower than the assumed emissions.

United States Electricity Consumption data was reported at 11.791 kWh/Day bn in Feb 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 12.060 kWh/Day bn for Jan 2025. United States Electricity Consumption data is updated monthly, averaging 9.940 kWh/Day bn from Jan 1991 (Median) to Feb 2025, with 410 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 13.179 kWh/Day bn in Jul 2024 and a record low of 7.190 kWh/Day bn in Apr 1991. United States Electricity Consumption data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by U.S. Energy Information Administration. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RB004: Electricity Supply and Consumption. [COVID-19-IMPACT]

description: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) publishes a wide selection of data and statistics on energy power technologies from a variety of sources (e.g. EIA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratory, EPRI and AWEA). In 2006, NREL published the 4th edition, presenting, among other things, data on the U.S. electricity supply. The series of datasets included are: primary and delivered energy (1980 - 2030); electricity overview (1980 - 2030); consumption of fossil fuels by electric generators (1980 - 2030); electric power sector energy consumption (1980 - 2030); fossil fuel generation by age of generating unit (1980 - 2005); nuclear generation by age of generating units (1980 - 2005); operational renewable energy generating capacity (1980 - 2003); number of utilities (1980 - 2004); top-10 IOUs (1990 - 2004); top-10 worldwide independent power producers; and utility mergers and acquisitions (1998 - 2004). The data was compiled from a variety of sources, including EIA, NREL, and SEC.; abstract: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) publishes a wide selection of data and statistics on energy power technologies from a variety of sources (e.g. EIA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratory, EPRI and AWEA). In 2006, NREL published the 4th edition, presenting, among other things, data on the U.S. electricity supply. The series of datasets included are: primary and delivered energy (1980 - 2030); electricity overview (1980 - 2030); consumption of fossil fuels by electric generators (1980 - 2030); electric power sector energy consumption (1980 - 2030); fossil fuel generation by age of generating unit (1980 - 2005); nuclear generation by age of generating units (1980 - 2005); operational renewable energy generating capacity (1980 - 2003); number of utilities (1980 - 2004); top-10 IOUs (1990 - 2004); top-10 worldwide independent power producers; and utility mergers and acquisitions (1998 - 2004). The data was compiled from a variety of sources, including EIA, NREL, and SEC.

US Power EPC Market size was valued at USD 20.36 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 28.73 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.

US Power EPC Market Drivers

Aging Infrastructure: The US power grid is aging, and many power plants and transmission lines require modernization or replacement. This creates significant opportunities for EPC companies to undertake projects related to grid upgrades, power plant construction, and transmission line expansion.

Increasing Demand for Renewable Energy: The growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, is driving the demand for EPC services to develop and integrate these projects into the grid.

Government Regulations and Incentives: Government regulations and incentives, such as tax credits and renewable energy standards, are encouraging investments in clean energy projects. This creates a favorable environment for EPC companies to undertake renewable energy projects.

Digitalization and Automation: The increasing adoption of digital technologies and automation in the power sector is driving the demand for EPC services to design, build, and integrate advanced technologies into power plants and grids.

The size of the U.S. Solar Power Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 16.48% during the forecast period. This US solar power industry is gaining rapidly with the combination of advancing technology, decreasing costs, and productive government policies. As the country strives towards a cleaner energy future, solar power has come up as an important player in curbing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy independence. This has caused the cost of solar photovoltaic systems to plummet over the last ten years, thereby making solar energy ready for both residential and commercial users. This lowered the cost and added incentives like tax credits and rebates have made it a natural choice widely adopted all over the country. Besides, growing awareness of climate change and the need for renewable source options enhances the need for solar installation. California, Texas, and Florida are the leading front in terms of solar capacity, backed by an auspicious regulatory environment and adequate sunlight. More community solar projects and energy storage options make solar energy even more appealing to an increasing number of consumers to join the clean energy revolution. Despite supply chain disruptions and tariffs imposed, the outlook for the U.S. solar power industry remains promising. Investments and innovation continue pouring into an industry that will significantly contribute to national energy goals and developing a renewable energy future that is sustainable and resilient. Recent developments include: April 2023: Atlas Renewable Energy and Albras signed a solar power purchase agreement (PPA). Atlas will deliver solar-generated power to Albras for the next 21 years under the contract terms. The 902 MW Vista Alegre Photovoltaic Project will supply solar energy. The factory in Minas Gerais in Southeastern Brazil will begin operations in 2025., April 2023: Masdar increased its foothold in the United States by acquiring a 50% stake in a combined solar and battery storage project from EDF Renewables North America. The Big Beau project in California comprises a 128MW solar facility plus a 40MW battery energy storage system. It is one of eight projects with a total capacity of 1.6 GW in which Masdar and EDF Renewables have agreed to collaborate., March 2023: Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS), a Duke Energy nonregulated commercial brand, is operating its largest solar power plant, a megawatt (MW) Pisgah Ridge Solar facility in Navarro County, Texas. Over the next 15 years, Charles River Laboratories International Inc. has a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 102 MW of the project.. Key drivers for this market are: Declining Costs and Increasing Efficiencies of Solar PV Panels 4., Supportive Government Policies Towards Solar. Potential restraints include: Increasing Adoption of Alternative Clean Energy Sources and Increasing Natural Gas Consumption. Notable trends are: Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Expected to Dominate the Market.

US Coal Market was valued at USD 49.0 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 41.69 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of -2% from 2025 to 2032.

US Coal Market: Definition/ Overview

In the United States, coal is a fossil fuel that is extracted for use in power generation and industrial activities. It is mostly used to generate electricity in coal-fired power stations, where thermal coal is burned to create steam that drives turbines. In addition to electricity generation, coal, particularly metallurgical coal, is necessary in steel manufacturing as it is used to generate coke, a vital component in the blast furnace process. Despite the increasing use of renewable energy sources, coal remains an essential energy source for various sectors in the United States.

The US coal market is being driven by initiatives that reduce its environmental effect through innovations such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and cleaner combustion technology. While coal’s importance in power generation is likely to diminish as renewable energy sources such as wind and solar expand, it will continue to be critical for industries that require high-temperature processes, such as steelmaking. The global export market for US coal is projected to remain important, particularly in areas with limited access to other energy sources.

Graph and download economic data for Industrial Production: Utilities: Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution (NAICS = 2211) (IPG2211S) from Jan 1972 to Feb 2025 about power transmission, distributive, electricity, IP, production, industry, indexes, and USA.